The Enhanced Biodiversity Duty (EBD) was introduced under the Environment Act (2021). It requires all public authorities in England to consider how they can actively conserve and enhance biodiversity.
The Department for Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs (Defra) requires all Local Planning Authorities (LPA) and Local Authorities to report and publish what actions they have taken during the reporting period, and plan to take over the next five years to meet the EBD.
The first EBD report is due within 12 weeks from the 1st of January 2026 and will continue in five-year cycles.
The Enhanced Biodiversity Duty Report March 2026 (opens in a new window) is available to view online or as a PDF download.